Presented By: Peter Vollbrecht, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine
Co-Authors: Natascha Heise, Eastern Virginia Medical School

Purpose
At many medical schools there is a concerning shortage in the support and recognition of work related to outreach initiatives. This is further corroborated by the lack of faculty mentorship regarding these efforts. As a result, this effort often goes unrewarded as faculty fail to produce publications and presentations that showcase the scholarly outcomes of their work. To address this issue, an international community of practice was created to bring medical professionals together to exchange innovative ideas, share experiences, and collaborate on community outreach, research, and engagement efforts (CORE). 

Methods
CORE was established in 2021 and has since continued its mission with ongoing recruitment to expand its number of members. Guided by two chairs, this initiative conducts bimonthly virtual meetings for discussion and mentorship as well as in-person meetings at various national and international conferences. Membership is free and open to anyone interested. 

Results
To date, CORE has successfully brought together a diverse community of 60 members from 34 different institutions, spanning 21 states in the USA, as well as Canada and the Caribbean. This network comprises a blend of both seasoned experts and novices. With an average attendance of 15 members in each session, CORE serves as a platform for collaboration. Members actively join forces to create abstracts, coordinate focus sessions, and prepare for oral presentations at renowned conferences, including AMEE, IAMSE, and ASPBP. CORE's dedicated community of practice has shown promising results in connecting faculty across America and enabling collaboration within the outreach realm. Initiatives like these not only enhance the quality and impact of outreach efforts but also elevate the recognition and scholarly contributions of individuals and institutions in the field of medicine, ultimately benefiting both the medical community and the communities they serve.